Pediatric Vulvovaginitis

Dallas

Plano

What is Pediatric Vulvovaginitis?

Nonspecific Vulvovaginitis

In childhood, the infection usually begins in the vulva, with secondary spread to the vagina. In adolescence, particularly after the onset of sexual intercourse, vaginal involvement is primary. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) is very rare in children unless the child is immunocompromised or on antibiotics.

Young girls are particularly susceptible to vulvovaginitis. Because the genital area is close to the rectum, bacteria (and sometimes parasites –like pinworms) spreads easily. In addition, children can spread bacterial respiratory infections from their nose and mouth to the vulva. Infection with sexually transmitted pathogens suggests sexual abuse.

In addition, vulvar skin is thin and sensitive to trauma from scratching, rubbing from tight-fitting clothing, or exposure to irritants like harsh soaps or bubble baths.

Yeast Vulvovaginitis

Everyone has a fungus called candida, which is typically found in the intestines, mouth, skin and the tissues around the genital areas. When, candida grows out of control, it causes a yeast infection. Candida flourishes in warm, dark areas, such as the vagina or armpit.

What are the different types of Pediatric Vulvovaginitis?

Nonspecific Vulvovaginitis

Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vulva and vaginal tissues. It can be caused by infection, irritation, a foreign body, allergy, or systemic disease.

Yeast Vulvovaginitis

Pediatric yeast infection is a general term that describes when a naturally occurring fungus grows in excess and causes irritation.

Vaginal yeast infection – This is the most common type of yeast infection. Approximately 75 percent of all women will have at least one during her lifetime.

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Vulvovaginitis?

Nonspecific Vulvovaginitis

Abnormal odor

Burning sensation during urination

Discharge

Discomfort, pain, or itching

Vulvar irritation

Vulvar redness

Yeast Vulvovaginitis

Itching and irritation

Pain during urination

Pain during intercourse

Rashes

Vaginal swelling

White, thick coating on tongue

Discharge from the vagina – thick, white and no odor

How is Pediatric Vulvovaginitis diagnosed?

If your daughter has symptoms of vulvovaginitis, her doctor will first ask about her symptoms as well as about:

Bathroom habits and hygiene

Recent respiratory infections

Use of soaps and bubble baths

Her doctor will then examine the vulvar area and may swab the area to test for bacterial and other infections. If the doctor suspects a foreign body is present, he or she will conduct a pelvic exam and remove it.

How is Pediatric Vulvovaginitis treated?

In many cases, vulvovaginitis does not need to be treated with anything more than improved hygiene and vulvar care. This includes:

Making sure your daughter wipes from front to back after using the bathroom

Using toilet paper without perfumes or dyes

Avoiding the use of harsh or perfumed soaps and bubble baths, which can irritate the vulva

Patting the vulvar area dry after bathing, or allowing it to air dry

Avoiding tight-fitting, non-breathable clothing and underwear

Washing clothes in a mild detergent with no rinse or dryer additives

Discouraging the child from touching the area when sick

Taking “sitz baths” in lukewarm water to soothe inflammation

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a low-dose topical steroid to reduce itching and inflammation. If these methods don’t work, and vulvovaginitis is caused by infection, her doctor may prescribe antibiotics (or an anthelmintic in the case of pinworm infection).